Schumer, Gillibrand Announce Over $1.7 Million In Department Of Transportation Funding To Upgrade Airports Throughout Upstate New York

USDOT Funding Will Be Used For Three Infrastructure Projects At Airports Across Upstate New York Including the Capital Region, Finger Lakes & Plattsburgh

Washington, DC – U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $1,740,752 in federal funding for three critical infrastructure projects at local airports across Upstate New York. This funding was allocated through the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Improvement Program (AIP). Specifically, the federal funding will be used for renovations and improvements to operational efficiency to airports in the Capital Region, Finger Lakes, and Plattsburgh.

“Making sure our airports are clear for takeoff is essential for the safety of air travelers and the smooth functioning of the local economy,” said Senator Schumer. “I am very pleased to announce that more than $1.7 million will go to modernize airports and to support New York State’s infrastructure. Enabling these critical projects paves the way for local economies and communities in Upstate New York. I will keep fighting to bring meaningful investment in New York State’s airports which enhance overall quality and safety for passengers, pilots, and communities.”

“Investing in our airport infrastructure enables safer, more efficient service for businesses and travelers,” said Senator Gillibrand. “These funds are a major investment that will provide several airports across Upstate New York with the resources to renovate and upgrade their facilities. I will continue to urge Congress to allocate the needed resources to enhance efficiency and public safety at airports across New York.”

AIP provides grants to public agencies for the planning and development of public-use airports that are included in the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS). Funds obligated for the AIP are drawn from the Airport and Airway Trust fund, which is supported by user fees, fuel taxes, and other similar revenue sources.

Breakdown of funding is included below.

Capital Region

Recipient:

Project Description

Amount:

Floyd Bennett Memorial Airport

This funding will be used to install 54 airfield guidance sign fixtures and renovate Runway 1/19, and Taxiways A,B,C,D

$692,423

Finger Lakes Region

Recipient:

Project Description

Amount:

Finger Lakes Regional Airport

This funding will be used to construct a 3,625 foot Taxiway A to eliminate the need for aircraft to back-taxi on the Runway

$150,000

Plattsburgh

Recipient:

Project Description

Amount:

Plattsburgh International Airport

This funding will be used to renovate 12,600 square feet of the existing aircraft rescue and firefighting building